ALTON, Va. (August 20, 2026) – William Wallis will make his Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin debut this weekend at VIRginia International Raceway, bringing together several of the relationships that have helped shape his young racing career.
The 18-year-old from Paso Robles, California, will drive the No. 24 Advanced Autosports Mazda MX-5 with support from Turn 2 Driver’s Club and Mazda Motorsports. The car was previously raced in MX-5 Cup by Aaron Jeansonne, a former series standout whose guidance has played an important role in Wallis’ development.
“I have been working with William for quite a while now and couldn’t be more impressed with his potential,” Jeansonne said. “His natural speed and eagerness to learn, paired with his strong communication skills, have shown me that he has what it takes to go very far in this sport.”
Wallis’ connection to Turn 2 extends well beyond the logo on the car. As Assistant Series Manager for the club’s MX-5 race series, he helps support a program that gives members the opportunity to compete in MX-5 Cup cars in a close, club-based racing environment. Jeansonne has long served as Series Manager and has helped Wallis navigate the progression from grassroots competition to professional racing, both on and off the track.
“I couldn’t be more grateful for my involvement with the Turn 2 Club,” Wallis said. “The relationships are invaluable, and seeing how the club has developed its MX-5 program makes it no surprise to me that several drivers from the club have gone on to race other platforms successfully. To make my MX-5 Cup debut representing the club, in the same car Aaron raced, makes this feel like a true full-circle moment.”
Wallis arrives at VIR amid a successful Spec MX-5 season with Advanced Autosports, backed by the $75,000 Mazda scholarship he earned by winning the 2025 Spec MX-5 Shootout. He has since scored multiple Hoosier Racing Tire SCCA Super Tour victories in preparation for his MX-5 Cup debut.
At VIR, Wallis will share the Advanced Autosports tent with Nathan Nicholson, a 2025 MX-5 Cup championship contender.
“Having William come through our ladder system and take this next step of his career with us is a great honor,” Nicholson said. “He’s been a great leader in our grassroots programs, and I personally am very excited to see what his talents can do at the next level!”